People in general are adverse to change. Somehow, we prefer the familiar; we are ruled by habits; in the extreme, chained to addictions. Regardless of empirical proof, our minds find justification on how to prove ourselves right.
Flashback as an exchange student, during our chemistry lab class the professor had set up a heating mantle to hold a flask with water atop the Bunsen burner, and steel clamps to hold 2 thermometers—one to measure boiling water; the other, steam. Each group mimicked the same set-up on their table counters. After the mercury had visually registered its results, the professor asked the class, “Which one is hotter, boiling water or steam?” After a long silence, someone dared to blurt, “Boiling water!” Then the more vocal and loud groups managed to drown the rest with their agreement. The professor was flabbergasted and somewhat amused that he had to repeat the question. A great teaching moment.
Previously, I talked about a Christian’s identity—having a marked distinction. Now, let me write about the purpose for the distinction. I believe, God doesn’t do random. He endows each one with a particular gift and calls each one for a purpose. But every Christian for His general purpose.
The Bible sights instances wherein God actually stood by one’s side; e.g., Adam and Even in the garden;1 Moses at Mount Sinai;2 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the furnace;3 Paul in the barracks.4 As Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever,5 we may expect the same experience. At the point of Jesus’ death, we read in three gospels that the curtain of the temple tore in two, from top to bottom,6 signifying that we may now boldly come before God through Jesus Christ. It is both encouraging and humbling that God stands beside his chosen ones. And that we can worship Him in spirit and in truth7 anywhere, anytime.
In Christ, we are a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.8 We are given a new heart and a new spirit.9 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east to the west so far does [God] remove our transgressions from us.10
In the fullness of time11 Jesus was revealed. After Jesus’ death and resurrection Paul had an encounter with him and was blinded. Ananias, obedient to the Spirit, restored Paul’s sight and explained his role from then on. Paul was appointed to know His will, to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from his mouth; for Paul was called to be a witness for Jesus to everyone of what he has seen and heard.12 Paul was chosen and appointed.
You too are set apart to know, to see, to hear, and to be a witness for Jesus. May the word of the Lord speed ahead and be honored, and that you be delivered from wicked and evil men. The Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one. May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.13 AMEN!
Notes:
1. Genesis 3:8-10
2. Exodus 34:5
3. Daniel 3:24-25
4. Acts 23:11
5. Hebrews 13:8
6. Matthew 27:51, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45
7. John 4:23-24
8. 2 Corinthians 5:17
9. Ezekiel 36:26
10. Psalm 103:11-12
11. Galatians 4:4-7
12. Acts 22:12-15
13. 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5
